Attracting high paying clients is crucial to growing your photography business and *actually* making a profit.

Let’s be real – the photographer industry is a competitive one! It can be challenging to attract those fit-like-a-glove, high-paying clients who click *ACCEPT* as soon as you send over a proposal.

Identifying and attracting ideal clients is something I often help my design & mentorship photography clients with! In this blog post, we’ll explore some tips on how to get the ball rolling for bringing more high paying clients to your business. 

1. Define Your Niche

One of the best ways to attract high paying clients is to specialize in a specific niche. By focusing on a particular type of photography like ‘intimate weddings’ or ‘fresh 48 newborns,, you can position yourself as an expert in that field and attract clients who are willing to pay a premium for your services.

To define your niche, consider the types of photography that light you up the most AND that you are skilled at. This could be anything from wedding photography to commercial photography or portrait photography. By narrowing down your focus and serving a smaller group of people with specific needs, you will develop a reputation in that particular area!

2. Invest In Your Brand

Creating a strong brand is essential to attracting higher paying clients. Your visual identity is what sets you apart from other photographers and helps you stand out in a *very* crowded market.

Your visual identity (logos, colours, typography, submarks, patterns and textures) should be consistent across all platforms, including your website, Instagram, CRM, and any print marketing materials like business cards, thank you cards, or welcome packages. 

3. Build A Strong Online Presence

Sweet friends, a strong website is non-negotiable in 2023. In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence helps to legitimize your business. 

Your website should be easy to navigate, visually appealing, representative of YOUR unique gifts and personality, and optimized for search engines. Make sure your portfolio showcases your best work (rather than ALL of your work). Don’t forget to include client testimonials and case studies that demonstrate your expertise and the value you provide.

4. Grow Your Network

Networking with other professionals in your industry (or related industries) is another highly effective way to attract new clients. This could include other photographers, event planners, wedding coordinators, and other business owners who work with (or interact with!) your target audience.

Look for opportunities to attend networking events, join industry associations, and participate in Facebook groups where your ICA is hanging out. Get to know other professionals in your industry and build relationships with them. When you establish yourself as a respected and reliable service provider, you will be more likely to get referrals from others!

5. Raise Your Rates

If you want to attract higher paying clients, you need to offer premium services. And you need to charge accordingly! This means going above and beyond what your competitors are offering and providing a truly exceptional experience for your clients.

To add more value to your packages, consider including additional offerings like prints, albums, retouching, or ongoing photo retainers. Or, you could also offer a more high-touch experience such as consultations, wardrobe support, sourcing props, or an in-person reveal session!

Make sure your pricing reflects the value and transformation you provide. 

Sweet creative friend, if you’re struggling to stand out from the crowd, bookmark this post! If you’re in need of design or mentorship support, reach out to work together on growing your photography business.